After a cyber-attack that struck NHS systems local health chiefs are asking people to continue to use services wisely over the weekend.

The health system was hit by hackers last week, locking many doctors, nurses and midwives out of their computer systems - unless a ransom was paid.

Many GP surgeries could not see patients on Monday and Tuesday, while community staff in the North Tees area were unable to access patient records.

IT teams have been working round the clock to bring all systems back online, but staff are still trying to clear a backlog and are asking those using medical services to be patient.

But what if I need an appointment?

You should use healthcare services as normal in an emergency.

But health chiefs want to remind people that many common illnesses can be treated at home with over-the-counter medication.

The NHS 111 service has also been busy, and with walk-in centres on Teesside closing, A&E departments have been stretched so those with minor injuries are being asked to decide whether they really need to visit.

What do the professionals say?

Speaking on behalf of NHS organisations, Dr Neil O’Brien, who is chair of the Northern Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) Forum said: “The public have really taken on board messages from the local NHS this week about using services wisely and it is important that people always think carefully about how and when they access services – A&E and 999 emergency services should only ever be used for genuine emergencies which are serious or life threatening.

A virus and spyware warning message on a laptop screen (Image: PA)

“Because patients have been understanding and supportive of the NHS by listening to these messages it has allowed local organisations to deal with the cyber-attack and protect their computer systems and therefore recover more quickly.

“We do need to understand why this has happened and it is important that work to gain insight is carried out in a co-ordinated way with all NHS partners and this will take some time.”

Dr O’Brien continued: “How we have responded to this situation just shows how our whole NHS community is greater than the simple sum of its parts, and makes us all proud to serve our patients and public together, making sure they get the best and safest healthcare possible.”

What you can do to help

The public is being advised that this continues to be a busy week for all NHS services in the region and to support the NHS in the following ways to help services to return to normal.

Remember many common illnesses can be best looked after at home with over the counter medication, plenty of fluids, rest and recuperation – and no need to visit A&amp;E.

Pharmacies are open and can help if you start to feel unwell with a cough, cold or other minor ailment or injury – details of your nearest pharmacist can be found at urgentoremergency.co.uk

Parents and carers of children under five can get medical advice on a range of common childhood illnesses from the ‘NHS Child Health’ app available from Google Play or the App store.

People should continue to access emergency services in the usual way if there is a genuine need for urgent medical help that cannot wait.

Please continue to keep A&amp;E and emergency 999 service free for those with serious or life threatening needs

For all NHS appointments including GPs and hospital services please bring with you any medications, letters or paperwork you already have.